LEIGH scored a thrilling win over New Brighton as pace gathers in their search for a 1998 Lancashire Cup place.

From a healthy 54-0 the visitors were suddenly in trouble at 60-3, Graham Duddle's persistence earning him two wickets, Dave Potter snapping up a devastating 4-25 in 12 overs and Ben Cottrell taking 2-26.

The declaration came at 150-9.

But Leigh started poorly, losing Steve Bailey for a duck, as they struggled to get their rhythm and their runs. David Dove went for 15, Greg Dimery for a determined 36.

Tim McKiernan, however, was in sparkling form and he dominated the bowling, reaching his half-century from just 59 balls.

But wickets continued to fall at the other end with the overs quickly running out.

And, in a thrilling climax, seven were wanted from the final over. Potter knocked a single from the first ball.

So it was left to McKiernan. And he did not disappoint, wasting no time in hitting the next ball into the tennis courts to clinch a magnificent 20 points for Leigh.

His matchwinning unbeaten 64 came from just 71 balls, including three fours and three sixes.

On Saturday Leigh visit Marchwiel.

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